Hartwig, of Sauer and Hartwig Technologie GmbH, concluded that there is “a strong case for using one-way PET kegs instead of the traditional steel kegs because there are clear benefits at every stage of the supply chain from the brewery to the final customer.”

He highlights the rising cost of steel. PET kegs, he said, require a far lower investment than steel, and since they are designed to be recycled after use, there are no ongoing costs from maintenance and repairs. And there are no costs for transporting used kegs back to the brewery.

Another advantage, according to Hartwig: PET kegs are more widely available in smaller sizes, of 20 and 30 liters, than steel. That allows bars to offer a wider range of beers, wine and hard cider.